This fragrance-free moisturizer contains mostly natural ingredients, and given that this product is meant for those with sensitive skin, we're glad Burt's Bees left out the problematic plant extracts and fragrant oils they usually use, which aren't good for anyone's skin but especially not sensitive skin. Instead, skin is treated to a thick-textured cream rich in non-fragrant plant oil and a rather high amount of zinc oxide.

In addition to functioning as a sunscreen (though this product does not have an SPF rating and skin doesn't need sun protection at night), zinc oxide also functions as a skin protectant (it's the active ingredient in most diaper rash creams because of the strong barrier properties it has). That can be helpful for sensitive skin, but the drawback is zinc oxide can feel too heavy and occlusive—and there are other soothing, protective ingredients that help sensitive skin. Still, if you have sensitive, dry skin, you'll likely find the texture of this product acceptable.

The plant extracts this contains function as antioxidants and some have research pertaining to their anti-inflammatory properties, but it's disappointing that this moisturizer is packaged in a jar because it means the helpful plant ingredients won't remain stable during use (see More Info for details). Note that Burt's Bees Sensitive Daily Moisturizing Cream has a very similar formula and it has packaging that keeps the plant ingredients stable (and it's just fine to use at night, even though it's not labeled "night cream").

The fact that this night cream is packaged in a jar means the beneficial ingredients won't remain stable once it is opened. All plant extracts, vitamins, antioxidants, and other state-of-the-art ingredients break down in the presence of air, so once a jar is opened and lets the air in, these important ingredients begin to deteriorate. Jars also are unsanitary because you're dipping your fingers into them with each use, adding bacteria which further deteriorate the beneficial ingredients (Sources: Free Radical Biology and Medicine, September 2007, pages 818–829; Ageing Research Reviews, December 2007, pages 271–288; Dermatologic Therapy, September-October 2007, pages 314–321; International Journal of Pharmaceutics, June 12, 2005, pages 197–203; Pharmaceutical Development and Technology, January 2002, pages 1–32; International Society for Horticultural Science, www.actahort.org/members/showpdf?booknrarnr=778_5; Beautypackaging.com; and www.beautypackaging.com/articles/2007/03/airless-packaging.php).

Claims

This rejuvenating night cream is clinically proven to moisturize sensitive skin overnight without causing redness or irritation. Specifically formulated with softening Cotton Extract to help skin replenish its outer layer, rice extract to moisturize, and aloe to soothe. Naturally kind and gentle, you can use it daily.

Weaknesses: Many products have potent fragranced formulas; several formulas packaged in jars, which compromises their ingredients.

With humble beginnings in the town of Bangor, Maine, Burt's Bees is a brand focused on natural-themed, earth-friendly skincare. Unfortunately, in many cases, this also translates to less than beneficial formulas as not all of the natural ingredients used are helpful for skin.

Many of the plant extracts and oils used in these products, including orange oil, cinnamon oil, clove oil, lemon oil, eucalyptus oil, pine tar, alcohol, lime oil, and balsam peru, are problematic for skin and present a significant risk of irritation or a sensitizing reaction. Both the intriguing philosophy and inexpensive products are attractive, but it takes more than that to establish reliable products that are good for skin. It’s also important to consider the potential benefit (or potential harm) of the ingredients used.

There are some formulas to consider among the brand’s offerings, but some to be wary of—see our individual reviews on Burt’s Bees products for more details.

For more information about Burt's Bees, call 1-800-849-7112 or visit www.burtsbees.com.

About the Experts

The new Beautypedia Team proudly and unequivocally maintains the commitment to help you find the best products possible for your skin. We do this by relentlessly pursuing and relying on published scientific research so you will have unbiased information on what works and what doesn't-and the sneaky ways you could be making your skin worse, not better!

The Beautypedia Team reviews all products using the same research, criteria, and objectivity, whether the product being reviewed is from Paula's Choice or another brand.

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